GLORY OF HINDUISM
Sri Swami Sivananda
Hinduism is the religion of the Hindus and is the oldest of all living religions. It is also known as Sanatana Dharma or the Eternal Religion. It is as old as the world itself. The intuitive spiritual experiences of the Rishis of India have been recorded in the Vedas and Upanishads. These inner experiences are direct and therefore infallible. Hinduism regards the spiritual experiences of the Rishis of yore as its authority. The priceless truths discovered by them through millenia constitute the glory of Hinduism. Therefore, Hinduism is a revealed religion.
Hinduism will exist as long as the world lasts. There is a peculiar, mysterious spiritual force that is ingrained in the heart of Hinduism.
Hinduism provides spiritual food and Yoga Sadhana for all sorts of people to suit their temperaments, capacities, tastes, stages of spiritual development and conditions of life. Hinduism is not a religion of mere theories. It is eminently practical. In no other religion will you find such a variety of Yoga practised and such sublime, unique philosophy expounded. That is why India is the glorious land of sages, Rishis, Yogis and saints.
Hinduism stands unrivalled in the beauty, grandeur and depth of its philosophy. Its ethical teachings are sublime, soul-stirring and lofty. It is highly flexible ad adaptable to every human need. It is a perfect religion by itself and is not in need of anything from any other religion. No other religion has produced so many saints, great patriots, mighty warriors and pure women.
It occupies the proud first place in religious devotion and Godliness. The goal of Hinduism is God-realisation. Minus its Yoga, religion and its regulations, India will not be what it has been for millenia. Some Hindus are still not aware of the distinctive features of Sanatana Dharma. If every Hindu knows and understands what Hinduism is, he would be a God on this earth!
The more you know of the great Hindu religion, the more you will honour it, love it and feel proud of it. The more you study and practise its various teachings, the more will it enlighten and satisfy your heart.
Become true Hindus. Let the flame of true love fire your soul. Stand up. Gird up the loins. The hostile forces are ready to absorb you. Strengthen yourself. Unite.
Our temples have attracted pilgrims from time immemorial. The area around the temple is very sacred, soothing and pure. Due to the constant worship done there by many people, the atmosphere of the temple is full of pure spiritual vibrations. When you go there, you will at once feel a peace and calm which you will not feel elsewhere. The holiness of a temple should be carefully kept by observing physical cleanliness before we enter it, and also by observing purity of thought within the temple. When you go to a temple it must be for worship alone, not sight-seeing and engaging in gossip and worldly talk. Always make an offering whenever you visit a temple. It can take the form of a cash offering or Prasad, like fruit, milk etc.
May all be endowed with knowledge of Sanatana Dharma! May all endeavour to protect the eternal Dharma! May the secrets of Sanatana Dharma be revealed to all through the Grace of the Lord! May the blessings of the Rishis be upon all! Glory to the Vedas and Sanatana Dharma! Glory to the Lord, the source of the Vedas and Sanatana Dharma!
